Driving through eastern France: the best spots to take a break

The best places to take a break in eastern France

Picnic stops:

Aire de Jugy (A6):  This is a popular aire with children because of its fun Teletubbies-style playground. 

Aire de Lançon de Provence (A7): If you are heading south to the coast, you are almost within touching distance, so catch your breath here.

Sightseeing: 

Laon (A26): A city in a commanding position on a plateau that can be seen for miles around. The old town survived German occupation in World War One and is famous for its Gothic cathedral, dominating the landscape.

Château de Châteauneuf (A6): France has many chateaux, and readers will have their favourites. This ancient castle, handy for the autoroute, is an excellent one to add to your list (chateauneuf.bourgognefranchecomte.eu).

Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval (A7): An older fantastical structure than the Maison Picassiette, this was built between 1879 and 1912 by the local postman, Ferdinand Cheval, who picked up stones on his round to add to his growing edifice. It was designated a national monument in 1969 (facteurcheval.com).

Overnight:

Arras (A26/A1): World War One left this handsome city in ruins, but it was beautifully restored and a drink in the stunning Grand’Place on a sunny day is a special experience. If you have time – and older children will love this – go underground for a brilliant tour in the Carrière Wellington caves that were used in World War One (carrierewellington.com).

Troyes (A26): If you like cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, you will love Troyes. Follow the direction markers on the pavements to see the best of the city.

Dijon (A31/A38): The historic city centre is another World Heritage Site. Famous as the centre of the Burgundy (Bourgogne) wine-producing region – as well as for its mustard.

Mâcon (A6/A40): Another fine city on the Burgundy wine route, with plenty of wineries to visit in the area. Bad news for the designated driver…

Major tourist attractions:

Reims (A26/A4): Not a theme park – unless you are a champagne-lover. This one is more for the grown-ups, as some of the best-known champagne houses can be visited here. History fans might be tempted by the Musée de la Reddition, where the surrender document was signed by Germany in May 1945 to end the war in Europe (musees-reims.fr).

What are your favourite stops while driving through France? Let us know at letters@connexionfrance.com